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GoPro Karma Review

Review of GoPro Karma powered by the Slant community.

If a GoPro is your primary mode of filming, you should definitely be interested in the GoPro Karma. This drone offers complete control of the attached GoPro camera while in the air. In addition, the package includes a gimbal and a handheld grip for steady videos when not using the drone.

Pros

Pro

Great value package

When you buy the drone, you also get a handheld gimbal system with control buttons. The stabilizing gimbal is useful as it can be mounted on other GoPro compatible accessories. The package also includes additional propellers and a backpack with a built-in shoulder mount where you can attach your camera.

Pro

Simple to use controller

This drone's controller only has a few intuitively placed buttons, which are easy to learn. There’s no need to attach a smartphone, since the controller comes with a built-in touchscreen. The information layout on the screen is simple and won’t overwhelm you.

Pro

Helps beginners to learn how to fly it with a virtual learning mode

The Karma has a virtual learning mode for beginners, allowing them to fly this drone virtually, with the remote, while learning the basics.

Cons

Con

No automatic tracking mode

As of July 2017, there is no tracking mode where the drone can follow an object around. This feature would have been useful when you want the drone to follow a subject doing outdoor sports or driving a vehicle. GoPro has promised to add this in a future update.

Con

Over-reliance on GPS may lead to random drifting

The Karma doesn’t have any obstacle avoidance or downward sensors, relying solely on its GPS signal. This means it may drift randomly in the air if the GPS signal isn’t strong enough. At worst, it may cause collisions with objects in its path. Fortunately, the controller can somehow compensate this effect.

Con

Limitations when filming in 4K

Filming in 4K gives a “fish eye” effect which can be removed later, but it also reduces the maximum resolution down to 2.7K.

Con

Lack of an obstacle avoidance system may cause crashes

If the drone loses connection with the remote and takes a straight course home, it can crash somewhere, since it lacks an obstacle avoidance system.

Con

Controller's screen is hard to see under direct sunlight

The controller's screen is glossy, making it hard to use under direct sunlight.